Pape Thiaw: We came to win but left with a point
- Omna Taddele
- Mar 22
- 1 min read
Senegal national side head coach Pape Thiaw said the next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Togo will be very crucial following Saturday's goalless draw against Group B leaders Sudan in Benghazi.
The Teranga Lions came to the tie two points adrift of Sudan but the were unable to break down the defensively strong home side. Thiaw stated his charges were better in the first half.
“In the first half we could have made the difference but unfortunately, we lacked efficiency. In the second half we got into the game well but were unable to score. We came to win but we left with a point.”
The draw means Senegal now have surrendered their runner-up position to DR Congo, who defeated South Sudan at home on Friday. Senegal's next assignment will be at home on Tuesday against Togo, who were held to a two-all draw at home against Mauritania. Thiaw added the Togo game will be like a final in their quest for qualification.
“Now we have to encourage the players who gave their all tonight and focus on the next match which is a final.”
Senegal, who have appeared in three World Cups, are third in Group B with nine points. Sudan remain first place on eleven points, a point ahead of DR Congo.
